Lancaster High School Bands Lancaster, Ohio Handbook

Transcription

1 Lancaster High School Bands Lancaster, Ohio Handbook

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE Forward Introduction Our Purpose Rules Section 1 - BE INFORMED Program Organization Enrollment Process Credit for Band Policy Regarding Dropping Band Grading Policy Grading Rubric Concert Bands Band of Gold Percussion Ensemble Swinging Gales Pep Band Color Guard Winter Guard Communication Section 2 - BE RESPECTFUL Code of Conduct Interpersonal Conflicts Use of Band Facilities School-Owned Instruments Section 3 - BE PUNCTUAL Attendance and Tardiness Policies Section 4 - BE PREPARED Required Materials Music Preparation Uniforms Section 5 - BE MOTIVATED Awards Concert Band Student Leadership Band of Gold Student Leadership Band Council Beyond the Band Room Opportunities After High School CONFIRMATION OF INTENT

3 PREFACE FORWARD Congratulations on your decision to be a part of the Lancaster High School band program! The Lancaster High School Bands have a long history of excellence. By making a commitment to be a Lancaster High School band member, you now become part of this rich heritage. Reputation, such as this, is built over time, based on consistent and predictable actions and performances. In addition, reputations can be formed quickly when the entire band is judged based on one performance, or by the actions of one individual member. This is why everything you say and do must be representative of the entire band. Furthermore, every rehearsal, performance, and action must be representative of our goals and philosophy. The reputation of this year s band is largely a result of many bands who preceded you. Your responsibility to the Lancaster High School Band is to continue this commitment to excellence and build upon the great traditions of the past. Band members are constantly on display. Each member must always be aware of the importance of exemplary behavior and quality performance. Remember that you represent the Lancaster High School Band, Lancaster High School, and the Lancaster community whenever you perform or appear publicly. Any misconduct casts a direct reflection on all those you represent and may well undo the good work of thousands of alumni, students, and community members. A band is only as strong as its weakest member. This not only refers to musical ability, but also refers to attitude and effort. I look forward to your enthusiastic participation in order to make this the most successful year yet! Benjamin E. Factor Director of Bands, Lancaster High School

4 0.2 - INTRODUCTION The purpose of this handbook is to inform students and parents of the responsibilities and expectations of being a band member by providing a reference for all band policies. A Lancaster High School band member is a student who has, by choice, embraced the mission, vision, and values of the Lancaster High School band program. One's personal objectives should always be to become a successful part of the total unit and to strive to help others to achieve the same goal. Review the content of this handbook thoroughly. To ensure the continued success of the Lancaster High School Bands, the policies in this handbook will be strictly enforced. 0.3 OUR PURPOSE

5 0.4 - RULES To be a successful member of the Lancaster High School band program, one must follow these five simple rules: I. Be Informed - know what you are doing II. Be Respectful - know how to act III. Be Punctual - know when to do it IV. Be Prepared - know how to do it V. Be Motivated - know where you re going SECTION 1 - BE INFORMED PROGRAM ORGANIZATION Our concert bands form the core of the Lancaster High School band program. It is in these groups where students develop and reinforce the fundamental performance skills that are expanded upon in all other ensembles. Because of the unique importance of the concert band, participation in a concert band is required for participation in any other performing group, with the exception of guard members (who may participate in Color Guard and/or Winter Guard), Jazz Band vocalists, and instrumentalists not commonly found in a concert band (Piano, Bass, and Guitar). The directors are committed to providing a great experience for each and every band member. For most students, the best experience includes participation in both Concert Band and Marching Band. For some students, participation in Marching Band is not possible due to participation in a fall sport. Other situations that might affect successful participation in Marching Band should be discussed with the Director of Bands so that the best experience can be arranged for the individual ENROLLMENT PROCESS To properly enroll as a member of the Lancaster High School Band program, the following steps must be taken. STEP 1 Learn more about the high school band program by attending the annual informational meeting in January (recommended for new members). STEP 2 Sign up for Freshman Band or Symphonic Band on your class schedule. If you plan to be in marching band, also sign up for Marching Band. STEP 3 Fill out the packet of forms given to you in March. Turn them in at the April parent meeting. STEP 4 Marching band members must make sure band camp payments are made in accordance with the payment schedule. STEP 5 Check the band calendar and attend all of the required rehearsals.

6 1.3 - CREDIT FOR BAND Those enrolled in Symphonic Band or Freshman Band will receive 1 credit. Students participating in Marching Band will receive an additional 1/4 credit. Members of Color Guard will receive 1/4 credit. In addition, those students who participate in two seasons of Marching Band may apply to have one P.E. class waived (beginning with the class of 2019) POLICY REGARDING DROPPING BAND When a student commits to a performing group, the entire group begins to rely on the member as an integral part of its success. If the student can no longer commit to the group or simply chooses not to, he/she puts an undue burden on all other members and its directors. If a student withdraws from the Band of Gold after the July 4 th Parade, or is removed for disciplinary reasons, no fees or payments will be refunded. If a student withdraws from band after the deadline for dropping classes, or is removed for disciplinary reasons, that student may receive an "F" for the entire year, in accordance with school policy GRADING POLICY Student grades are a direct reflection of their skills as band members. This includes individual preparation, performance skills, overall improvement, and effort. To perform as an ensemble at an exceptional level, a high standard will be set. Individual ability levels, experience, and improvement will also be taken into account. While a high level of performance is extremely important for success, attitude and effort are equally important and will be weighed heavily, as this is a necessary element of a successful group. Without a proper attitude and a strong work ethic, the student will not reach his/her full potential. As a result, the ensemble will not reach its full potential. Grades will be broken down as follows: 1. Rehearsal Participation (35%) 2. Music Preparation (35%) 3. Performances (30%)

7 1.6 - GRADING RUBRIC MUSIC PREPARATION (35%) Band member s music preparation is very poor, indicating major deficiencies in basic fundamentals. Band member s music preparation is poor, showing many technical errors and lacks one or more essential qualities. Band member prepares music at a basic level. Playing is acceptable, but lacks one or more essential qualities. Band member s music preparation is unusual in many respects, but not worthy of the highest grade due to minor defects. Band member has prepared music at an impressive level, with very few technical errors and exemplifying a truly musical expression. Band member almost never practices and has never asked for extra help. He/she does not seem to care if musicianship improves or not. Lack of practicing is very negatively affecting band performances. Band member rarely practices and does not or very rarely seeks extra help. There is little effort to improve musicianship unless an incentive is given. Lack of practicing is negatively affecting band performances. Band member practices only occasionally and rarely seeks extra help. Some amount of effort is seen to improve musicianship, but only when convenient. Band member practices and takes instrument home on a regular basis. He/she occasionally seeks help and participates in extra opportunities when encouraged by the director or peers. Band member practices nearly every day. His/her instrument is taken home regularly. He/she seeks help whenever possible and actively seeks extra opportunities to improve musicianship REHEARSAL PARTICIPATION (35%) Band member has a significant problem with basic items of participation in rehearsals. He/she skips practices when convenient. Effort to improve rarely exists. Band member is often late or comes without appropriate materials. Effort to improve is seen only occasionally. Band member has an occasional problem with being on time or prepared for rehearsals. Occasional reminders seem to help with this. Band member is on time and prepared for almost all rehearsals with rare occasions of forgetting an instrument or being somewhat unprepared. Band member is on time for all rehearsals with appropriate materials. Very rarely is even a minor item forgotten. Band member often has a problem with basic levels of respect and attitude. Instructions are sometimes ignored completely. Band member sometimes has a problem with respect. Specific instructions are followed, but the reason is questioned. Band member has an acceptable attitude at nearly all rehearsals. Respecting the director or peers is not a problem. He/she follows instructions. Band member has a positive attitude at nearly all rehearsals and encourages peers to do the same on occasion. He/she will take on a leadership role in rehearsal if prompted. Band member is enthusiastic and helpful during rehearsals. Respect and encouragement of peers is evident by his/her collaboration with others. A leadership role is taken confidently without being asked. Band member s lack of attention often interrupts the entire rehearsal. He/she is detrimental to the engagement of others in the rehearsal. Band member is rarely attentive. While the band director is working with other groups, the student is sometimes a distraction to others. Band member is occasionally attentive in the rehearsal. While the band director is working with other groups, he/she will put forth minimal effort to stay engaged. Band member is almost always attentive. While band director is working with other groups, the student usually continues to be actively engaged with the rehearsal process. Band member is attentive at all times during rehearsals. While band director is working with other groups, the student continues to be fully engaged in the rehearsal process. Band member shows little effort in regards to posture and playing position. Eye contact with the conductor is basically non-existent. Band member usually sits with poor posture and holds instrument incorrectly. He/she very rarely watches the conductor. Band member has occasional problems with posture and playing position. He/she sometimes watches the conductor. Band member usually has excellent posture and playing position. He/she has an acceptable level of eye contact with the conductor. Band member is a role model in regards to posture and playing position. A great effort to watch the conductor is evident

8 PERFORMANCES (30%) Band member did not show up to one or more major performances without a valid excuse. Band member did not show up to one minor performance without a valid excuse, but was present at all others OR was present but had multiple problems with concert instructions. Band member was present for all performances but had incorrect attire, showed up late, left immediately after performing, or acted unprofessionally before, during, or after performance. Band member was present for all performances. He/she had small inconsistencies in concert attire and/or did not stay to clear equipment completely. Band member was on time and present for all performances with the correct attire. He/she stayed until all equipment was properly put away and the facilities were clean

9 1.7 - CONCERT BANDS AUDITIONS At the beginning of the school year, band members will audition for chair placement in one of the concert bands. Color Guard members who play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument are also expected to participate in a concert band. CHALLENGES Throughout the year, there are several opportunities to challenge other band members in order to move up chairs. If a student does not defend his chair (i.e. he loses to someone below him), he is ineligible to challenge someone above him. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Sectionals will be held during the school day in order to prepare for upcoming performances. During sectionals, students will have the opportunity to work on problematic passages in a small group setting. Occasional after-school sectionals and full band rehearsals are also required for participation. Music checks will be held two weeks prior to performances in order for band members to demonstrate proficiency on the assigned music BAND OF GOLD The Lancaster High School Marching Band, nicknamed the Band of Gold, is a co-curricular ensemble that rehearses in the summer and fall. AUDITIONS To ensure that all members of the Band of Gold have the skills necessary for successful participation, all students must be recommended by the directors. This will be done by demonstrating skills through a formal audition or by evaluating the same skills during regular participation in band class. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Members of the Band of Gold must attend summer rehearsals, band camp, and after-school rehearsals in the fall. Performances include parades, football games, and competitions. Music checks will be held two weeks prior to performances in order for band members to demonstrate proficiency on the assigned pieces of music. Members will be responsible for the following costs: band camp, pay-to-participate fee, band shoes, gloves, summer uniform, and a uniform maintenance fee PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE The Lancaster High School Percussion Ensemble is a select group that begins rehearsing at the conclusion of marching band season.

10 AUDITIONS Membership is attained through auditions in the spring of the previous school year. Percussionists will be required to audition on snare drum and mallets. Piano and bass keyboard auditions will consist of a prepared solo and sight-reading. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Percussion Ensemble travels regularly. Some trips may require the student to be absent from school. As a result, grades will be taken into consideration for membership SWINGING GALES The Swinging Gales is an extra-curricular ensemble that begins rehearsing at the conclusion of marching band season. The group explores various styles within the jazz/pop genre, including swing, blues, funk, rock, latin, and more. AUDITIONS All high school band members are eligible for membership. Non-band members may audition on piano, guitar, and bass, or as a vocal soloist. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS The Swinging Gales perform several times throughout the year at concerts, festivals, and special events. Rehearsals are held twice a week after school PEP BAND Pep Band is an extra-curricular ensemble that performs at home basketball games. All high school band members are eligible for membership.

11 COLOR GUARD AUDITIONS Membership in Color Guard is open to all incoming high school students. Auditions are held during the winter or spring of the previous year. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Students participating in Color Guard have the same requirements as other marching band members. Guard members will be responsible for the following costs: band camp, pay-to-participate fee, guard shoes, guard gloves, a summer uniform, and additional equipment based on the needs of that year s program WINTER GUARD Winter Guard is an extension of the fall Color Guard program. The purpose of the group is to continue to develop and refine the skills necessary for successful participation in the fall season. Both new members and returning members are encouraged to join. Winter Guard begins rehearsing at the conclusion of marching band season. AUDITIONS There are no auditions for Winter Guard. Membership is open to all students in grades ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS The cost of participation may include equipment and uniforms, based on the needs of that year s program.

12 COMMUNICATION It is the responsibility of each band member to be informed. All information crucial to successful participation in our program will be discussed during rehearsal. The following means of communication are intended to give band members and their families additional ways to reference information. Name How to Access Purpose BAND WEBSITE LancasterBands.com The band web site is the best resource to keep up with news, reference information, download forms, and find contact information. FACEBOOK Lancaster Bands Lancaster Band Boosters- Lancaster, Ohio Content on Facebook includes reminders of upcoming events and other helpful information for band members, parents, and supporters. Messages posted on the Lancaster Bands Facebook page will be automatically posted on Twitter. Those interested may follow one or both and still receive the same information. INSTAGRAM LancasterBands Instagram will be used to showcase our band program through pictures and short videos clips. BAND BOOSTER MEETINGS First Monday of each month at 7:30pm Lancaster High School Band Room Information discussed at Booster meetings includes upcoming fundraisers, events, and volunteer opportunities. GOOGLE CALENDAR LancasterBands Accessed through the band web site, this is the official calendar for all band rehearsals and events. YOUTUBE LancasterBands Content posted will include Lancaster Band performances, music advocacy, recruitment videos, and instructional videos. SNAPCHAT LancasterBands A fun, informal way to follow the band in action.

13 SECTION 2 - BE RESPECTFUL CODE OF CONDUCT The following infractions constitute major disciplinary violations. Consequences will be issued at the discretion of the director and administration and may include school disciplinary action, and/or dismissal from the band program. This Code of Conduct is in effect while (1) students are under the authority of school personnel and/or (2) during all school-related activities and events, even when such activities occur off school grounds. 1. Alcohol/Drugs A student will not knowingly use, possess, sell, conceal, distribute, or be under the influence of any type of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco of any kinds on school grounds during, before, or after school hours, off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event, or on school buses or rented carriers. 2. Disrespect A student shall not demonstrate disrespect through action, attitude, or word to any staff member, volunteer, guest, or student. 3. Hazing Hazing is prohibited. Hazing is defined as doing any act of coercing another, including the victim, to do an act of initiation that causes or creates a substantial risk of mental or physical harm to any person. 4. Inappropriate Materials A student shall not possess, bring, share, transmit [ex. texting, social networking, etc.], conceal, sell, or offer to sell material which is considered by reasonable standards of the school community to be inappropriate. 5. Insubordination - A student shall comply with any reasonable instruction(s) of band staff or designated supervisor during any period of time when he or she is under the authority of such personnel. 6. Internet/Computer Abuse A student will not submit, publish, print or display any defamatory, threatening, sexually explicit, racially offensive, or illegal material, nor shall a student encourage the use of controlled substances. 7. Profanity/Abusive Language A student shall not use profane, vulgar, abusive, obscene, or suggestive language or gestures, which under the circumstances, are offensive by reasonable standards of the school district community or which disrupt normal band activities. 8. Public Display of Affection A student is prohibited from demonstrating physical actions which are considered to be inappropriate for the school environment. 9. Theft/Vandalism A student shall not take, attempt to take, or receive into his or her possession property of the school district or property of another person without permission to do so. A student shall not participate in acts of vandalism or the willful misuse of property. 10. Threatening Behavior A student shall not engage in any behavior which threatens or degrades another person by written, verbal, or nonverbal means.

14 2.2 - INTERPERSONAL CONFLICTS Band members are likely to have conflicts with other band members or directors over the course of their time in the band program. It is of extreme important to realize that most conflicts are a result of numerous small problems that are not properly resolved. Prevention is key! When attempting to resolve conflicts, refer to the following: STEP 1 - Temporarily remove yourself from the situation as necessary. Find an appropriate time and place for both parties to calmly explain their point of view, and then agree upon a resolution. STEP 2 - If step 1 does not resolve the situation, promptly inform a director at an appropriate time, place, and manner. In order to prevent gossip and drama, details of the conflict should not be discussed any further, unless deemed necessary by the director, counselor, and/or school administrator. STEP 3 - Cooperate fully with the director, counselor, and/or school administrator until a resolution has been achieved USE OF BAND FACILITIES OVERVIEW Students are encouraged to utilize the band facilities to practice their instruments whenever a director is present. The band facilities must remain clean and orderly. Students must be considerate of others using the facilities for individual practice, private lessons, and rehearsals. INSTRUMENT STORAGE ROOMS Instrument storage rooms are for the storage of equipment and music only. Students found loitering, socializing, or doing other school work may be prohibited from their use. Instrument storage compartments will be assigned to each student and should be used only for instruments and music. Compartments are to be locked after each rehearsal. Compartments are expected to remain clean and free of items that are not related to band. Valuables (i.e. money, electronics, purses) should not be left unattended at any time. FOOD AND DRINKS Food, chewing gum, and drinks are not permitted in the band room unless specifically allowed by a band director. Water is the only exception. MUSIC OFFICE AND MUSIC LIBRARY Students are not permitted in the music office or music library unless given permission and only if under supervision of one of the directors.

15 2.4 - SCHOOL-OWNED INSTRUMENTS All band members using school-owned equipment must fill out the proper form prior to using the equipment or taking it out of the band room. Instruments must be properly maintained. All valves and slides must be working and all corks must be greased. It is recommended that slides are lubricated every Monday before rehearsal. Necessary repairs should be reported to a band director in writing as soon as possible. Deliberate damage to school-owned property will not be tolerated and will result in school disciplinary action and/or dismissal from the band program. If a school-owned instrument is damaged due to student negligence, the student will be held responsible for that repair. Normal maintenance will be handled through the Instrumental Music Department. SECTION 3 - BE PUNCTUAL ATTENDANCE AND TARDINESS POLICIES REPORTING ABSENCES AND TARDIES All anticipated absences and tardies must be reported to the directors in advance using the official Band Absence Form only. This form can be accessed on the band web site. Parents must fill out the online form, thus acknowledging the absence, but it is the student s responsibility to see that these forms are submitted promptly and filled out properly. EMERGENCY ABSENCES In the case of an emergency situation or sudden illness, please the director or call the music office and leave a message at REHEARSAL ABSENCES Rehearsals are vital to the success of a performing group. In the event that there is a conflict with a rehearsal due to a family event or conflict with another activity, the band member will be considered excused if electronic notification is received two weeks (14 days) before that date. It is of the band s best interest, as well as the student s best interest, to plan these events around the rehearsal schedule when possible. Please note that excessive absences, regardless of the reason, may affect participation in the performing ensemble. IF PERFORMANCE IS WITHIN TWO WEEKS 100% attendance is required if a performance is within two weeks. The only valid excuses for missing these rehearsals are as follows: personal illness, a death in the family, or another extenuating circumstance as defined by the director. PERFORMANCE ABSENCES All members are required to attend all performances. The only valid excuses for missing performances are as follows: personal illness, or a death in the family. If an extenuating circumstance is in conflict with a performance, the director must be notified in writing no later than two months (60 days) prior to the performance. An example of an extenuating circumstance would be the wedding of a close relative at the exact time and date of a performance.

16 CONFLICT BETWEEN A PERFORMANCE AND ANOTHER ACTIVITY Band members are expected to be responsible for keeping track of scheduling conflicts with other activities. All band performance dates are announced early in order to give time to plan. This includes anticipated performances like State Finals for marching band and concert band. It is the responsibility of the student and parents to obtain a complete schedule of important events from the coach or advisor. This includes potential conflicts that can be anticipated. An example of a potential conflict that can be anticipated would be the advancement of a team to a state or regional competition. If there is a potential scheduling conflict, the director must be notified in writing no later than two months (60 days) prior to the performance. TARDINESS Students are expected to be punctual and prepared for all rehearsals and performances at report time. Students should allow an adequate amount of time to prepare their instrument, set up, and warm up prior to the specified time. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES OR TARDIES Examples of unexcused absences include, but are not limited to, the following: doctor and dentist appointments (non-emergency), lack of transportation, homework, studying, driving school, and work conflicts. Unexcused absences from rehearsals or performances will result in one or more of the following: 1. Improvement Plan 2. Grade Deduction 3. Meeting with Parent 4. Suspension from Future Performance(s) 5. Removal from Leadership Position 6. Dismissal from the Performing Group ACADEMIC INTERVENTION High achievement is expected from all band members not only in band, but in other academic courses as well. Students who receive a grade of D or F on an interim report or grade card must notify the director immediately so that scheduling accommodations can be made to improve the grade. RIDING HOME WITH PARENTS Band members are permitted to ride home with a parent or guardian after a performance. To do so, parents must submit a written request at least 24 hours prior to departure. Notification on the day of the trip cannot be accepted. The student and parent must check out before leaving. There will be an assigned chaperone or staff member near the buses for this purpose. The buses will not depart until all students are accounted for.

17 SECTION 4 - BE PREPARED REQUIRED MATERIALS REQUIRED MATERIALS WOODWINDS 1 box of 10 reeds (Vandoren) Swab Mouthpiece brush Reedgard Cork grease Pencil REQUIRED MATERIALS - BRASS Valve oil and tuning slide cream Slide-O-Mix (Trombones only) Mutes as needed (Metal Straight Mute recommended) Mouthpiece brush Flexible cleaner Pencil REQUIRED MATERIALS PERCUSSION Vic Firth SD1 General drumsticks 2 pairs of Innovative Percussion FS1N (Marching Band snares) Vic Firth MTS1 Tenor Sticks (Marching Band tenors) Vic Firth MTS1SW (Marching Band tenors) 2 pairs of Encore 81B (Marching Band bell players) Pencil REQUIRED MATERIALS - GUARD Practice flag Pencil ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL MARCHING BAND MEMBERS 3-ring binder Tennis shoes and socks Large water container

18 4.2 - MUSIC PREPARATION To the best of one s ability, music should be prepared at a basic level prior to the first rehearsal. Members of all groups will be required to demonstrate proficiency on their part two weeks prior to the upcoming performance. Failure to prepare music properly will result in one or more of the following: 1. Improvement Plan 2. Grade Deduction 3. Meeting with Parent 4. Suspension from Future Performance(s) 5. Removal from Leadership Position 6. Dismissal from the Performing Group UNIFORMS OVERVIEW Uniformity is a cornerstone of any quality band program. As a result, Lancaster band members are expected to wear their uniforms with pride, in order to show what great privilege it is to be a member of the group. When participating in any band event, the uniform must be worn properly and completely at all times. Band members should be cautious with their appearance in order to not distract from the performance. Hair must be an appropriate neutral color. Unnatural and/or extreme hair color or styles are not permitted. Failure to follow this code will result in consequences at the director s discretion. UNIFORM INSPECTIONS Uniform inspections will be held prior to all major performances. Failure to pass uniform inspections may result in the student not being allowed to perform.

19 4.4 - BAND OF GOLD SUMMER UNIFORMS Summer uniforms can be purchased on specified dates during the spring or summer. This uniform is worn for the Memorial Day parade, all summer performances, and some football games. The summer uniform consists of the following: 1. Navy blue shorts (purchased through the Band Boosters) 2. Band of Gold polo shirt (purchased through the Band Boosters) 3. White ankle socks (purchased through the Band Boosters) 4. A pair of basic, white tennis shoes (provided by the student) FALL UNIFORMS All marching band members are fitted for a fall uniform in the summer. This uniform will be worn throughout the remainder of the season. In addition to the items listed above, band members will need to purchase the following for the fall season. 1. Black gloves for wind players only (purchased through the Band Boosters) 2. Black marching band shoes (purchased through the Band Boosters) CONCERT BANDS The uniform for all Concert Bands consists of the following: Girls: Black long-sleeved blouse, black dress pants or a long black skirt (below the knee), black crew socks, hose, or footed tights, and black dress shoes (flat or low-heeled) Boys: Black long-sleeved dress shirt, black dress pants, black crew socks, black dress shoes PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE Members of the Percussion Ensemble will be issued a tuxedo during the school year. This will include a tuxedo jacket, pants, bow tie, cummerbund, vest, four studs and two cufflinks. Each student must purchase a white tuxedo shirt, black socks/hose, and black dress shoes. The tuxedo should be kept on the form-fitting hanger with which it was issued. Each member will be responsible for dry-cleaning their tuxedo at the conclusion of the school year SWINGING GALES The Swinging Gales uniform will be identical to that of the Concert Bands (see above) PEP BAND Attire for Pep Band will be the following: band polo, jeans, and tennis shoes.

20 SECTION 5 - BE MOTIVATED AWARDS AWARDS FOR EACH PERFORMING GROUP Students in each performing group will receive a chevron patch with the name of the group for the first year of participation. Each year thereafter, the student will receive a small pin with the name of the group listed on it. GOLDEN PLUME AWARD The Golden Plume is a special recognition given out at home football games to marching band members who go above and beyond their responsibilities as a band member. Band members are nominated by their peers and recipients are selected by the directors. OUTSTANDING MARCHING BAND MEMBER IN EACH CLASS This award is given to one marching band member in each class (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior) who demonstrates outstanding attitude, work ethic, musicianship, and potential. MOST IMPROVED MARCHING BAND MEMBER This award is given to the marching band member who has shown most significant improvement and potential. BAND BOOSTERS SCHOLARSHIPS The Lancaster Band Boosters sponsor several scholarships each year. Applicants must be a graduating senior in the Lancaster High School band program in good standing, and have been a member for at least three years. JOHN PHILIP SOUSA AWARD The John Philip Sousa Band Award recognizes superior musicianship and outstanding dedication. The award is given each year to one senior band member. This award is the pinnacle of achievement in a high school band program CONCERT BAND STUDENT LEADERSHIP SECTION LEADER The section leader or principal player of each section has the responsibility of serving as a role model for tone, intonation, technique, and style. The director will rely heavily on this individual to assist their section whenever needed and to keep track of problematic passages in the music for further study BAND OF GOLD STUDENT LEADERSHIP FIELD COMMANDER The holder of this prestigious position should serve as a role model to all members of the band. After the directors, the field commanders hold the highest leadership position in the marching band. The field commanders are to assist the directors with the management of all marching band rehearsals.

21 SECTION LEADER/CAPTAIN Section leaders and captains will be responsible for the efficient operations of their sections. They will assist their members with music, establish field discipline, provide instruction, and serve as positive role models. SQUAD LEADER The primary responsibility of the squad leader is to assist the section leader or captain with the responsibilities listed above BAND COUNCIL The band council is a group of students that serves as an advisory committee concerning all aspects of the Lancaster High School band program. The council assists the directors and band members with planning, preparing, and executing band projects, and shaping the direction of the band program. Council meetings are open to all band members and will be held throughout the year. Council officers may be elected as needed BEYOND THE BAND ROOM PRIVATE LESSONS The single best way to maximize one s musicianship is to study privately with a qualified instructor. All students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons regardless of their current skill level. Band members seeking a private instructor should contact a director. SOLO & ENSEMBLE ADJUDICATED EVENT Participation in OMEA Solo & Ensemble Adjudicated Event is strongly recommended for all band members. Those interested in a leadership role the following school year must prepare a solo. The directors will assist in organizing small ensembles and choosing appropriate music. CHAMBER ENSEMBLES The chamber ensemble program is an extension of participation in the annual Solo & Ensemble Adjudicated Event. Small chamber ensembles will rehearse with limited coaching, and will perform throughout the community as ambassadors of Lancaster High School. Individuals interested in forming a year-round chamber ensemble should consult with a director. HONOR BANDS Honor Bands are held at various times throughout the year. Many are open to all students, while others have specific audition requirements. More information can be found on the band bulletin board, the band website, or on social media. Scholarships may be available from the Band Boosters to assist with costs OPPORTUNITIES AFTER HIGH SCHOOL BAND It is a source of great pride and joy that countless Lancaster High School band members continue to play their instrument at the collegiate or professional level, or in a community ensemble of their choice. It is the goal of the Lancaster High School Instrumental Music Department that all of our students aspire to lifelong participation in instrumental music and that one s involvement in it becomes a cherished part of an abundant and fulfilling life.

22 CONFIRMATION OF INTENT Please read each carefully and review anything that you do not understand before signing. This page is due by Wednesday, July 26, I have read and understand the important policies of the Lancaster High School band program. I intend to stay informed by utilizing the various means outlined in section I fully intend to meet the high standards of conduct and respect as outlined in this handbook. I am fully aware of all rehearsals and performances and understand that an updated calendar can be found on the band web site. I understand that the Attendance and Tardiness Policies will be strictly enforced. I have submitted an Absence Form online for all known conflicts for the year. I understand what is necessary for a Lancaster High School band member to be prepared for rehearsals and performances, including materials, preparation of music, and uniforms. I am aware of the many additional opportunities recommended to Lancaster High School band members to continue developing as independent musicians. Parent/Guardian s Name (printed) Student s Name (printed) Parent/Guardian s Signature Student s Signature Date Date